Author Archives: News All Around

By Jibril Aminu Dauda

Community Development Associations (CDAs) across Southern Kaduna have passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Southern Kaduna Annual Festival (SKFEST), while distancing themselves from the Southern Kaduna People’s United Association (SOKAPUA).

The position was made known during a meeting held on May 17, 2026, at Gwari Avenue, Barnawa, Kaduna, where over 50 representatives of various Southern Kaduna socio-cultural groups gathered to deliberate on issues affecting the region.

In a communiqué signed by Dr. Samuel T. Achie, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Community Development Associations Forum, the groups reaffirmed their support for the leadership of SKFEST headed by Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai (Rtd), describing the festival initiative as a platform promoting unity, peace, and development in Southern Kaduna.

The Forum also declared support for the leadership of Southern Kaduna People’s Union led by Bello Bissalla, urging the leadership to work closely with the Board of Trustees headed by Elder S. Bangoji to move the organization forward.

The CDAs, however, distanced themselves from Southern Kaduna People’s United Association, popularly known as SOKAPUA, led by Engr. Samuel Kato Tabara.


The Forum accused Tabara of making allegations against several organs and leaders within the organization, including members of the Caretaker Committee, the youth wing, and the Board of Trustees.

The statement further alleged that Tabara unilaterally registered SOKAPUA and altered the original SOKAPU logo without due consultations, actions the Forum said deepened divisions within Southern Kaduna.

The CDAs also accused Tabara and his group of disregarding several peace efforts initiated by respected religious leaders, traditional rulers, and elders of Southern Kaduna.

Among those mentioned were the Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association led by Apostle Emmanuel Kure, the Southern Kaduna Traditional Council under the Chief of Kagoro, and the Southern Kaduna Elders Consultative Forum led by Major General Zamani Lekwot (retd).

According to the statement, resolutions reached during reconciliation meetings included a return to the status quo, restoration of the original SOKAPU logo, deregistration of SOKAPUA, withdrawal of court cases, and apologies to the SOKAPU Board of Trustees.

The Forum said other groups complied with the resolutions, but alleged that Tabara failed to honor the agreements.

Speaking on the forthcoming 2026 Southern Kaduna Annual Festival, the CDAs dismissed concerns raised by Tabara over the event.

The Forum clarified that SKFEST is an independent entity registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and not an organ of either SOKAPU or SOKAPUA.

It added that the festival is expected to attract high-profile personalities, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The CDAs further called on political leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, youths, women groups, and other stakeholders to work together for the progress and stability of the region.

Answering questions from journalists, Achie assured that Southern Kaduna remains peaceful. “Southern Kaduna is peaceful and all stakeholders must unite under recognized structures to advance the interests of the people,” he said.

By: Musa Maye

The ruling All Progressives Congress has rescheduled the commencement of its National Assembly primary elections in Zamfara State to Monday, May 18, 2026.

The party said the primaries would be conducted across designated ward centres in the state.

This was contained in a notice issued to journalists by the Chairman of the APC National Assembly Primary Election Committee for Zamfara State, Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu.

Aliyu urged aspirants and party supporters to rely strictly on official communications from the committee responsible for conducting the primaries for accurate information and guidance.

He warned the public against relying on contrary reports, describing any information outside the committee’s official notice as “unauthorised, null and void.”

According to the statement, all participants in the exercise are expected to conduct themselves peacefully and comply fully with the guidelines issued for the conduct of the primaries.

The committee chairman assured stakeholders of the party’s commitment to ensuring a transparent, free, fair and credible primary election process across the state.

He also advised interested persons and party faithful to channel all enquiries through the committee’s official communication channels.

Members of the committee include Yusuf Dingyadi, Bala Usman Horse, Samuel Shwarta, Barrister Joshua Wapdil, and Usaini Gotu, while Hycenth Henlong Tuamyil will serve as secretary.

The recent media reports alleging the arrest of the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an alleged N500 billion fraud have exposed what appears to be a calculated smear campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of a rising public figure known for his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his growing grassroots influence among Nigerian youths.

Contrary to sensational reports circulating across some media platforms, Dr Abdullahi was neither arrested nor detained by the EFCC. Multiple reports confirmed that he merely honoured an invitation by the anti-graft agency in line with due process and respect for constituted authority.

A statement issued by his media team clarified that the ECN boss voluntarily responded to the EFCC’s invitation and was not arrested as falsely portrayed in several publications.

However, despite this clarification, sections of the media rushed to publish alarming headlines suggesting guilt even before any formal findings or charges had been made public.

Observers say the development bears the familiar signs of politically motivated blackmail often deployed against public officials who command growing popularity and political relevance ahead of major electoral cycles.

In recent months, Dr Abdullahi has emerged as one of the prominent voices mobilising young Nigerians in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the possible second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His youth engagement efforts and expanding political network across several states have reportedly unsettled certain interests uncomfortable with his rising profile.

Supporters of the ECN boss insist that responding to an invitation by a law enforcement agency should not be twisted into a media conviction or used to destroy reputations through coordinated misinformation.

They argue that anti-corruption institutions must be allowed to carry out investigations professionally without political actors and sensational headlines weaponising routine procedures for propaganda purposes.

The situation has also sparked concerns about the growing trend of trial-by-media in Nigeria, where public officials are declared guilty in headlines long before investigations are concluded or any court pronouncement is made.

Political analysts note that in a democratic society governed by the rule of law, invitations for questioning are not equivalent to convictions, adding that public discourse must remain guided by facts, fairness, and due process.

For many of Dr Abdullahi’s supporters, the question remains: why the desperation to criminalise a man whose only visible political offence appears to be his vocal support for President Tinubu and his growing acceptance among young Nigerians?

The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen defence cooperation and enhance intelligence sharing between both countries.

The MoU was signed on Sunday, 10th May 2026, in Amman, Jordan, by Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, and Major General Yousef A. Alhnaity, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in intelligence exchange, defence capacity building, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and regional security. Key areas of cooperation include:

• Joint military training and exchange of defence expertise
• Intelligence cooperation and counter-terrorism operations
• Defence research, technology transfer, and industrial collaboration
• Mutual support for regional and global peace and security initiatives

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Matawalle described the MoU as a significant milestone in Nigeria-Jordan relations and a strategic step toward addressing contemporary security challenges.

“Nigeria and Jordan share a common commitment to peace, stability, and security. This partnership will deepen our collaboration and create practical pathways for technology transfer, including the establishment of a defence production line in Nigeria in line with the provisions of the DICON Act,” he said.

The MoU reflects the mutual resolve of both nations to strengthen trust, enhance interoperability, and pursue joint actions that contribute to stability within their regions and beyond.

Signed:
Ahmed Dan Wudil SA New Media

Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence
Federal Ministry of Defence, Abuja

By Luke Musa

ABUJA — Leaders of the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) have reaffirmed their support for power rotation in Nigeria, insisting that the presidency should remain in Southern Nigeria in 2027 to preserve political balance, equity, and national stability.

The position was contained in a communique issued at the end of an emergency meeting of the forum held in Abuja on Saturday.

The SMBLF, which comprises Afenifere, Middle Belt Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and PANDEF, said the zoning arrangement has remained an important part of Nigeria’s democratic practice since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

According to the communique, political parties preparing for their congresses and conventions should ensure that their presidential candidates emerge from Southern Nigeria.

The forum argued that retaining the presidency in the South for another term would strengthen national unity and reduce political tension across the country.

“Political parties are strongly advised to zone and elect their presidential candidates from Southern Nigeria,” the communique stated.

The leaders also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to demonstrate neutrality and independence in the conduct of elections and the supervision of political party activities.

They expressed concern over controversies surrounding certain sections of the Electoral Act, warning that unresolved disputes and perceived inconsistencies could undermine public confidence in future elections and trigger unnecessary political instability.

On insecurity, the SMBLF passed a vote of confidence in the Nigerian armed forces for their ongoing efforts against terrorism and banditry but noted that security agencies remain overstretched because of inadequate manpower relative to the country’s population and landmass.

The forum said it observed “with dismay” what it described as favourable treatment and incentives being extended to purportedly repentant terrorists through government-backed amnesty programmes, while victims of violence continue to live in displacement camps under harsh humanitarian conditions.

According to the leaders, many communities destroyed by terrorist attacks have yet to receive adequate support, while displaced persons remain uncertain about returning to their ancestral homes.

The forum also rejected proposals linked to the planned establishment of state police, particularly the suggestion reportedly made by the Inspector General of Police that the institutionalisation of state police should take up to 60 months.

The SMBLF described the proposed timeline as unnecessarily long, insisting that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity requires urgent and decisive reforms rather than prolonged bureaucratic processes.

The leaders further opposed suggestions that 60 percent of federal police personnel should automatically be integrated into state police structures based on their states of origin.

According to the communique, such an arrangement would weaken the effectiveness and independence of state policing.

The forum maintained that state police should be established as a constitutional institution with clearly defined powers rather than as an extension of the federal police system.

On the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the SMBLF called on the federal government to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians living abroad.

The leaders urged the government to make adequate arrangements for Nigerians willing to return home while appealing to Nigerian youths not to engage in retaliatory attacks against South African citizens or businesses in Nigeria.

The forum also renewed its long-standing demand for restructuring, calling for greater autonomy for federating states and ethnic nationalities in line with the principles of true federalism.

According to the leaders, meaningful restructuring remains essential to addressing many of Nigeria’s political, economic, and security challenges.

The SMBLF further urged the federal government to intensify efforts aimed at reducing the economic hardship facing Nigerians.

The forum recommended stronger support for local crude oil refineries and the implementation of clear policies capable of ending the continued importation of refined petroleum products.

The communique was signed by HRH Oba Oladipo Olaitan, leader of Afenifere and Chairman of SMBLF; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum; Senator John Azuta-Mbata of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; and Ambassador Godknows Igali, Chairman of PANDEF.

By Abigail Adams

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has commended the managing director/chief executive officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, for what it described as his transformational leadership in expanding rural electrification and renewable energy infrastructure across Nigeria.

The group said the REA under Aliyu’s leadership has demonstrated innovation, competence and strategic direction in tackling energy poverty, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

In a statement issued and signed by its president, Comrade Abdul Danbature, AYAGL noted that the agency’s interventions in renewable energy development were already creating positive socio-economic impacts across several communities nationwide.

The group specifically praised the aggressive expansion of solar mini-grids and off-grid electrification projects being deployed in communities, markets, healthcare facilities, tertiary institutions and economic clusters across the country.

According to the statement, the projects represent more than electricity supply, describing them as instruments of economic empowerment, education, healthcare improvement and sustainable development.

“For decades, several communities in Northern Nigeria suffered severe neglect in terms of access to stable electricity and modern energy infrastructure,” the group stated.

“Businesses collapsed, educational institutions struggled, healthcare services remained limited, and rural economic activities suffered enormously due to inadequate power supply.”

AYAGL, however, said there is growing hope as many communities are now benefiting from sustainable energy solutions through the interventions of the REA.

The group also applauded the implementation of the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) programme aimed at expanding electricity access to millions of Nigerians in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

It further commended the Federal Government’s National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative designed to provide solar-powered electricity to federal universities, tertiary institutions and healthcare facilities.

According to the youth group, improved electricity supply would significantly enhance learning, research, healthcare delivery, entrepreneurship and digital innovation in public institutions.

The assembly maintained that access to electricity remains critical to national development, economic growth and social stability.

“A community with electricity experiences improved security, economic growth, educational advancement, business expansion and increased productivity,” the statement added.

The group said young people particularly stand to benefit through entrepreneurship opportunities, employment creation and digital inclusion.

AYAGL further described Engr. Aliyu’s leadership style as professional, accountable and result-oriented, noting that the visible impact of the agency’s programmes reflects purposeful leadership and institutional efficiency.

The youth assembly also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing policy support and political will for the implementation of renewable energy and infrastructure projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

It added that sustained investment in rural electrification would help reduce poverty, unemployment, insecurity and rural-urban migration, especially in Northern Nigeria.

The group urged residents and community leaders in beneficiary areas to protect the projects and ensure community ownership for sustainability.

AYAGL reaffirmed its support for policies and programmes aimed at promoting economic growth, youth empowerment and improved living standards for Nigerians.

ENDS

A political pressure group has accused a Kaduna-based politician, Yerima Usman Shettima, of allegedly using a fake ambassadorial title in his political campaign materials ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group, operating under the banner of Concerned Citizens for Democratic Accountability, described the use of the title “Ambassador” on Shettima’s campaign posters as misleading, deceptive and capable of creating false impressions among members of the public.

The group in a press statement signed by the spokesperson, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, challenged Shetima to publicly explain the source and legitimacy of the title he has allegedly adopted in his political activities.

According to the statement, there is no known official record showing that Shetima was ever appointed as an ambassador by the Federal Government of Nigeria or any recognised international body.

“We are demanding clear explanations from Yerima Usman Shettima on how he came about the ambassadorial title he is parading on campaign posters and political materials,” Musa said.

“He was never officially appointed ambassador by the Nigerian government. The use of such a title is misleading and deceitful to the electorate.”

The group maintained that public office seekers, particularly those aspiring to represent the people at the National Assembly, must demonstrate transparency, honesty and integrity in both public and private conduct.

“Someone seeking a highly coveted Senate seat must be a person of proven integrity. Nigerians deserve leaders who are truthful about their identity, qualifications and background,” Musa added.

The group further warned against what it described as the increasing trend of politicians adopting honorary or unofficial titles to gain political advantage and public sympathy.
According to the group, such practices undermine public trust and weaken democratic values.

They called on relevant authorities, including electoral bodies and anti-corruption agencies, to investigate the matter and ensure that politicians do not misrepresent themselves before the electorate.

The claim that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu requires Senator Abdulaziz Yari to secure Zamfara or Northern votes in 2027 does not reflect the political realities on the ground. Electoral support in the North is driven by performance, party structure, and the capacity of leaders to deliver results for their people.

Matawalle’s Track Record in Zamfara and the North

1. Sacrifice for Party Victory in 2023
In the 2023 general elections, then-Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle prioritized President Tinubu’s national victory over his own re-election bid. He mobilized his political structure across Zamfara to deliver votes for the APC presidential ticket, demonstrating loyalty to the party and the President at a critical moment.

2. Grassroots Acceptance and Human Capital Development
Dr. Matawalle is widely regarded as one of the most accessible and impactful political figures in Zamfara. During and after his tenure as governor, he implemented programs targeting youth empowerment, women’s support, scholarships, and community development. This direct engagement has earned him significant goodwill among youths, women, and traditional institutions in the state.

3. Leadership in National Security
As Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Matawalle has shifted focus to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges through strategic partnerships and industrialization. He is currently engaging international defence manufacturers to attract investment and technology transfer into Nigeria, with emphasis on local production of military hardware. This aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of building self-reliance in defence and reducing dependence on imports.

4. Party Unity and Reconciliation
Within the APC, Matawalle has been active in reconciliation efforts across Northern states, working to bridge divides among party stakeholders. His approach has been to prioritize party cohesion and the broader interest of the North within the national political framework.

Zamfara and the wider North have multiple political leaders with influence and followership. President Tinubu’s 2023 victory and prospects for 2027 are built on a coalition of party structures, governors, ministers, and grassroots mobilizers across the region. No single individual holds a veto over Northern votes.

The APC remains committed to internal cohesion, and the contributions of all stakeholders who have supported the President and the party will continue to be recognized.

Signed:
Northern Political Communications Network.

A coalition of political support groups and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has thrown its weight behind Shehu Sani as the consensus candidate for Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition, which comprises youth groups, women associations, party mobilizers, grassroots campaign structures and community leaders drawn from the seven local government areas of Kaduna Central, announced its position during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Kaduna.

According to the groups, the endorsement of the former senator followed extensive consultations among party stakeholders and supporters across the zone who considered Sani’s track record, accessibility and constituency projects during his tenure in the National Assembly between 2015 and 2019.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener, Comrade Musa Ibrahim, said the decision to support Sani was based on what he described as “visible achievements, courage, and people-oriented representation.”

He noted that during his time in the Senate, Sani facilitated several developmental projects across Kaduna Central, including the construction and equipping of primary healthcare centres, educational support programmes, rural infrastructure and empowerment initiatives targeted at youths and women.

According to him, many residents of the senatorial district still remember the former lawmaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and consistently speaking on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians both at the state and national levels.

“The coalition carefully reviewed the political situation in Kaduna Central and resolved that Senator Shehu Sani remains the most experienced, accepted and credible aspirant capable of uniting the party and delivering victory for the APC in 2027,” Ibrahim said.

He added that the groups were particularly impressed by Sani’s long-standing involvement in human rights advocacy, democratic struggles and grassroots mobilization, describing him as a politician with “deep connection to the masses.”

The coalition further argued that Sani’s return to the Senate would strengthen legislative representation for Kaduna Central due to his experience, national visibility and understanding of the challenges confronting the district.

In an interview,another stakeholder, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed, said women and youth groups across the zone were supporting the former senator because of his inclusive style of leadership and accessibility while in office.

She stated that many beneficiaries of scholarships, empowerment schemes and social intervention programmes initiated during Sani’s tenure still identify with his leadership style.

“We believe Senator Shehu Sani has the capacity to effectively represent Kaduna Central again. He is accessible, outspoken and understands the needs of the people. That is why many groups have resolved to support him as consensus candidate,” she said.

The coalition also appealed to other aspirants and party leaders within the APC to work towards unity and avoid actions capable of creating divisions ahead of the elections.

According to the groups, adopting a consensus arrangement would help strengthen the party’s chances and ensure a rancour-free primary process in Kaduna Central.

Political observers believe the endorsement may further boost Sani’s growing political momentum within the APC following recent alignments and consultations among party stakeholders across the state.

Although the APC is yet to officially commence its primary process for the 2027 elections, political activities and consultations have continued to intensify across Kaduna State as aspirants position themselves for key elective offices.

By Abuja Advocates for Equity and Justice Forum

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a familiar yet increasingly urgent debate has resurfaced in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT): the question of equity, fairness, and rotational representation in the senatorial seat.

At the centre of this renewed conversation is a growing call by stakeholders—particularly from the Abuja South axis, comprising Abaji, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils—for what they describe as a long-overdue opportunity to produce the next senator representing the FCT.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the FCT has been represented in the Senate by a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous politicians. Among them are Khairat Abdulrazaq Gwadabe, Isah Maina, Usman Jibrin Wowo, Sidi Ali, Philip Aduda, and the incumbent, Ireti Heebah Kingibe.

A closer look at their tenures reveals a pattern that has now become the basis for agitation. While early representation rotated relatively evenly—with Khairat Gwadabe and Isah Maina serving four years each—later developments altered the balance significantly.

The emergence of Philip Aduda, who represented the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)/Bwari axis—commonly referred to as Abuja North—marked a turning point. Aduda held the senatorial seat for 12 consecutive years, the longest tenure in the history of FCT representation in the Senate.

In contrast, indigenous representatives from Abuja South, such as Usman Jibrin Wowo and Sidi Ali, served significantly shorter terms—approximately one year and three years respectively. Collectively, their tenure amounts to about four years, a disparity that has become a rallying point for proponents of zoning.

Beyond geography, the debate intersects with the sensitive issue of indigeneity in the FCT. Although the capital is constitutionally designated as a territory belonging to all Nigerians, indigenous communities—largely concentrated in Abuja South—have continued to demand greater inclusion in political representation.

Analysts note that while three of the six senators since 1999 are considered indigenous, their cumulative time in office falls short when compared to their counterparts from Abuja North or non-indigenous backgrounds.

“The issue is not just about who has served, but how long and from where,” a political observer in Abuja noted. “Equity, in this context, is both geographical and cultural.”

The debate has placed the spotlight on the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose internal philosophy emphasizes fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Supporters of Abuja South’s agitation argue that the party’s credibility will be tested by its willingness to reflect these principles in its candidate selection process. They point to the APC’s broader reliance on zoning and political balancing as a mechanism for managing Nigeria’s diversity.

“There is a moral obligation on the APC to translate into action,” a party chieftain said. “Anything short of that could trigger internal dissent and electoral backlash.”

Complicating the situation is the current political configuration within the FCT. The APC state chairman is widely believed to be from Abuja North, a factor some stakeholders interpret as strengthening the case for micro-zoning the senatorial ticket to the southern axis.

Equally significant is the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, whose influence looms large in the evolving political landscape. Since his appointment, Wike has been credited with accelerating infrastructure development and initiating reforms in traditional institutions across the territory.

While his performance has attracted commendation, political watchers believe his stance could be decisive in shaping the APC’s 2027 strategy in the FCT.

“There is an expectation that the minister, given his emphasis on order and structure, would support a balanced arrangement,” another analyst observed. “Endorsing Abuja South could consolidate political gains and foster unity.”

The FCT remains strategically important—not only as Nigeria’s capital but also as a politically competitive territory. In recent elections, opposition parties have made notable inroads, often capitalizing on internal divisions within dominant parties.

Advocates of zoning warn that ignoring the equity argument could deepen fractures within the APC and create openings for rivals. Conversely, conceding the ticket to Abuja South, they argue, could galvanize grassroots support and improve the party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

Ultimately, the debate over who produces the next FCT senator reflects a broader tension in Nigerian politics—the delicate balance between merit, inclusivity, and political pragmatism.

Adding another layer to the conversation is the current distribution of federal appointments, which critics argue is skewed toward Abuja North, including the ministerial position.

Although the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, the practice has evolved into an unwritten principle for managing the country’s complex diversity. In the FCT—where questions of identity, ownership, and belonging remain deeply rooted—the stakes are particularly high.

As 2027 approaches, the decision before political actors, especially within the APC, goes beyond candidate selection. It is a defining moment that will test their commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.

For many in Abuja South, the message is unequivocal: the time for inclusion is now. Whether that demand translates into political reality remains to be seen.